Area Scouts Innovate with LEGO
Scouts from the Heart of Virginia Council, Boy Scouts of America, which serves over 5,800 youth (spanning elementary, middle and high school ages) and 2,800 adult volunteers, are embracing the world of STEM education through engaging activities involving everybody’s favorite construction bricks – LEGO. In addition to the timeless tradition of handcrafting and racing Pinewood Derby cars, Cub Scouts are now also exploring their creativity by building innovative LEGO cars for exciting races.
In January, over 850 middle and high school-aged Scouts practiced a STEM-based approach to fun during their annual Winter Camp at T. Brady Saunders, a 600-acre camp facility in Goochland, VA, amidst a diverse array of over 40 merit badges, Robotics stood out. Through this program, Scouts explored the world of technology using special LEGO robotic kits and computers by not only constructing vehicles, but also learning the intricacies of programming these vehicles to deliver materials from one point to another. Participating in merit badge courses like Robotics helps Scouts explore their potential and interests in future education and career paths.
The Heart of Virginia Council is at the forefront of providing multifaceted program options for boys and girls in Central Virginia. This approach seamlessly integrates outdoor education programs with STEM, emphasizing the importance of connecting with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics from an early age. By incorporating LEGOs into their curriculum, Scouts are not only having fun but also developing crucial skills in problem-solving, creativity, leadership, and teamwork – all essential components of well-rounded youth and an exciting Scouting program.
Founded in 1913, the Heart of Virginia Council, with headquarters at 8090 Villa Park Drive in Henrico, offers training and support to units in 24 counties and four cities in Central Virginia, representing distinct communities that serve youth, families, and units, in an area spanning 8,143 square miles. Learn more about us and join Scouting by visiting https://hovc.org.